Glorious Italy | 17 Days

DAY 1:                                   ROME – ASSISI – SIENA – FLORENCE

Departing at 7:15am from your hotel by a deluxe coach, you will arrive in Assisi, ready to explore this tiny town surrounded by walls, built in the Middle Ages at your own leisure. Take your time to visit the basilica of St. Francis, where you will see masterpieces by Giotto and Cimabue and, then, have free time for lunch (not included). Board on the bus to reach Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, world-known for the Palio, the historical horse race around the shell-shaped town square: Piazza del Campo. Next, continue to Florence for dinner and overnight. (D)

DAY 2:                                   FLORENCE

After breakfast, spend the day venturing around beautiful Florence, the “Cradle of Renaissance”, where, with the help of Michelangelo, Italian art reached its pinnacle. Based on Etruscan-Roman origins, the city flourished in the Middle Ages and was further refined during the Renaissance. You will be fascinated by the uncountable monuments, churches and buildings such as Santa Maria del Fiore, more commonly referred to as the Duomo. On your visit, you will be amazed by its magnificent dome built by Filippo Brunelleschi. Cross a small piazza to see the “Campanile” tower (partly designed by Giotto) and the Baptistery, with its bronze doors where Michelangelo imagined the “Gates of Paradise.” In the heart of the city, you will see Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo della Signoria (also known as Palazzo Vecchio), and the Basilica of Santa Croce. Lunch in a typical Tuscan restaurant in Piazza Santa Croce. Spend the afternoon strolling the cobblestone streets of Florence on your own. Dinner at leisure, overnight in Florence. (B, L)

DAY 3:                                   FLORENCE – BOLOGNA – VENICE

After a delightful breakfast in Florence, we depart for the elegant city of Bologna. Upon arrival, the charming city centre, adorned with its iconic porticos, awaits your free-time exploration. Begin your walking tour at Piazza Malpighi, leading to the heart of the city at Piazza del Nettuno and Piazza Maggiore. Here, you can marvel at the historic Palazzo Podestà as well as the Basilica of San Petronio, the largest Gothic church in the world built with bricks. We will then show you why Bologna is often hailed as Italy’s gastronomic capital as you delve into its vibrant street food scene, which is as rich and diverse as its culinary heritage. Meandering through the city’s medieval streets, you will encounter a delightful array of food stalls and markets, each offering a mouth-watering selection of both traditional and contemporary treats. As you explore the charming alleys and bustling piazzas, you will immerse yourself in a culinary adventure that goes beyond just a meal. With a street food light lunch experience at a local eatery offered by us, this is your chance to savour the authentic flavours and unique dishes that define Bologna’s renowned gastronomic identity. Later in the afternoon, we continue our journey to Venice (Mestre). Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for a restful overnight stay. Overnight in Venice (Mestre). (B)

DAY 4:                                   VENICE

After breakfast, transfer to Piazza San Marco and visit the most iconic places of the “Floating City”: the Palazzo dei Dogi, symbol of Venice’s glorious past, and the legendary “Bridge of Sighs”. After the walking tour, allow us to treat you to a spritz or a prosecco as a delightful conclusion to your visit to the highlights of Venice, in the company of your tour leader. While you sit comfortably and savour your drink, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy a taste of the famous “cicchetti,” a Venetian variation of tapas (light lunch). Spend the afternoon roaming along Venice’s canals at your leisure and then return to the hotel for overnight. (B, L)

Day 5:                                   VENICE – MONTEPULCIANO – ROME

After breakfast, departure heading to Tuscany, world-known for its landscapes, its churches and castles and its delicious wines. You will proceed to Val di Chiana with a stop in Montepulciano, a medieval town rich in history and art. Known for its “Nobile” wine, on purchase in local wine houses, Montepulciano also offers stunning panoramic views and a rich cultural heritage. Lunch in a typical restaurant included. In the evening, you will arrive in Rome to check in into your hotel. (B, L)

DAY 6:                                   ROME

After breakfast, departure from the hotel for the included tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica with our exclusive “Skip the Line” access! No stress to reach the area: upon arrival, your guide will lead you into the museums where you’ll visit one of the most important art collections of the world. Walk along the beautiful Galleries of Tapestries and Geographical Maps before admiring Raphael’s Rooms and, then, the amazing Sistine Chapel. After this incredible masterpiece, the tour ends in St. Peter’s Basilica where you can admire the incredible masterpiece St. Peter’s Basilica: the biggest church in the world. The tour ends in St. Peter’s Square. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore the city at your own leisure. Overnight in Rome. (B)

DAY 7:                                   ROME

Enjoy breakfast, the day is at your own leisure to explore the city of Rome. (B)

DAY 8:                                   ROME – SORRENTO

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning, at 7:00 a.m., departure by coach heading south along the “Autostrada del Sole,” passing through the regions of Lazio and Campania. Along the way, marvel at the stunning landscapes of the Italian countryside and the spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast, where crystal-clear waters meet hills dotted with lemon trees and charming villages. Upon arrival in Sorrento, the jewel of the Amalfi Coast, you’ll be captivated by its vibrant streets, artisan ceramic workshops, and historic churches. After checking into your hotel, enjoy the afternoon at leisure. If you’re looking for more adventures, you can opt for an optional tour to explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at the hotel (dress code recommended: jacket for men), followed by an overnight stay in Sorrento. (B, D)

DAY 9:                                   SORRENTO – CAPRI – SORRENTO

After breakfast, depart on an excursion to the island of Capri: one of the most exclusive summer desti­nations of the Mediterranean. Depending on weather and sea conditions, you will admire the dreamy Blue Grotto on a small rowboat. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore the island at your own pace. Once back on the mainland, return to your hotel in Sorrento for dinner and overnight. (B, D)

DAY 10:                                SORRENTO – POMPEII – AT SEA

After breakfast, get ready to leave Sorrento and head toward Pompeii, the last visit in the beautiful territory of the Campania region. Accompanied by our expert tour guide, we will head to Pompeii, where a professional local guide will lead you on a fascinating walking tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the remarkably well-preserved ruins of this ancient Roman city, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. We will have skip-the-line access, personal headsets, and a radio receiver so you won’t miss a single detail as history comes to life. After the visit, departure by bus to the port of Naples to board the TIRRENIA/SNAV ferry boat bound for Palermo. Overnight on board without dinner or breakfast. (B)

DAY 11:                                PALERMO

Arrive in Palermo and transfer to your hotel. That night, have dinner in the hotel. (D)

DAY 12:                                 PALERMO – MONREALE – PALERMO

After breakfast, depart on a morning excursion to Monreale, re­cently included on the UNESCO World Her­itage List, an ancient royal town famous for its almonds, olive oil and citrus fruits, as well as its fine Norman architecture. Visit the elaborate Cathedral of Monreale and then en­joy some shopping. Return to Palermo for a walking tour of the city. Wander the streets of the Old Town, hearing tales of Palermo’s 3,000-year history and discovering attractions like Palermo Cathedral. Walk inside the im­pressive-looking place of worship and marvel at its arches, cupolas, and mosaics with an incredible mix of influences coming from several dominations on the island. Enjoy some free time in the late afternoon before returning to your hotel for dinner. Overnight Palermo. (B, D)

DAY 13:                                 PALERMO – ERICE – MARSALA – AGRIGENTO  

Early breakfast and departure to Erice, a me­dieval village stacked into the side of Monte San Giuliano. Many say that little has changed in the village since the sixth century, and its labyrinth-like twist of lanes is perfect for a cool and pleasant morning amble. Afterwards, we’ll set off to Marsala whose lands are known for its Marsala wine. You’ll take part in a sensorial experience, for you will visit a traditional tavern and taste regional wine and products during a light but unforgettable lunch. Return to your coach and travel to Agrigento, your final destination of the day. Visit Ancient Greek monuments and ruins at the Valley of Temples (entrance included) – a UNESCO World Heritage site – and learn about archaeological relics like the Classical Temple of Concord the Temple of Hercules; the Temple of Jupiter, one of the largest Doric-style buildings. Check in to your hotel in the evening. Dinner and overnight in Agrigento. (B, L, D)

DAY 14:                                 AGRIGENTO – RAGUSA

After breakfast, travel to Ragusa and visit the enchanting historical centre “Ibla”, with its stunning baroque palaces and churches. Together with seven other cities in the Val di Noto, Ragusa is listed among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the old gate of San Giorgio, the Giardini Iblei, and then walk to Piazza Pola where we will visit the church of San Giuseppe. Be enchanted by the elegant Cathedral of San Giorgio, the Church of the Souls in Purgatory, and the magnificent Cosentini Palace, one of the most interesting Late Baroque palaces in Sicily. Overnight Ragusa. (B, D)

DAY 15:                                 RAGUSA – NOTO – SIRACUSA – TAORMINA

After breakfast, travel to Noto, a pic­turesque fishing town popular for its stately Baroque architecture. Visit the Cathedral of San Nicolò, recently restored after an earthquake, and then have a nice walk in the town’s centre. Continue along the south coast to Siracusa, located on Sicily’s southeastern tip. Upon arrival, cross one of the city’s bridges for a visit to the island of Ortigia, the most ancient part of Siracusa, home to a wealth of Ba­roque churches and medieval palaces. In the late afternoon arrive in Taormina for overnight. (B, D)

DAY 16:                                TAORMINA – MT. ETNA – TAORMINA

After breakfast, depart for Mount Etna, the largest ac­tive volcano in Europe and the highest mountain in Italy. Learn about volcanic activity and marvel at the old lava fields and black mag­ma rock that comprises Etna’s landscape. If weather permits, you have a chance to climb to the summit (1800 m). After, return to Taormina, the beautiful and romantic town located on Mount Tauro. Spend the rest of your day at leisure. Overnight Taormina. (B)

DAY 17:                                 TAORMINA

After breakfast, the tour ends. End of our services. (B)

Accommodation (or similar):

ROME: San Martin Hotel, or Diana Roof Garden Hotel, or Bettoja Hotels

FLORENCE: Hotel Raffaello

VENICE (MESTRE): Delfino Hotel, or B&B Tronchetto (Venice Tronchetto)

VENICE ISLAND: Hotel Principe, or Hotel Amadeus (on Venice island if supplement is purchased)

SORRENTO: Grand Hotel Vesuvio

PALERMO: Mercure Hotel

AGRIGENTO: Della Valle Hotel

RAGUSA: Poggio del Sole Hotel

TAORMINA: Hotel Splendid

Includes:

–          Transportation by deluxe motorcoach

–          English speaking tour escort

–          Accommodation in 4 stars hotels

–          Meals as per itinerary

–          Entrance tickets to the archaeological site in Pompeii with “Skip the Line”

–          Entrance tickets to Vatican Museums & St. Peter’s Basilica with “Skip the Line”

–          Visit of Rome, Florence, Venice, Pompeii, Capri, Palermo, Agrigento, and Siracusa with local expert guide

–          Entrance tickets to the archaeological sites in Sicily 

–          Visit of the Blue Grotto in Capri 

Not Included:

–          Tips

–          Porterage service

–          Drinks

–          Entrance fees to monuments or museums when not mentioned

–          City tax for overnight stays (according to each city council rules)

–          Everything that is not mentioned in “Includes”

Things to Note:

–          Accommodation is subject to change without notice. Every effort is made to avoid hotel changes but should a mid-tour hotel change become necessary after this list has been printed, contact details of the new hotel will be supplied to you by your Tour Director.

–          Hotel rooms may not be available for check-in before 2:00 p.m.

–          Hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling are not included in the tour price.

–          Tour can be a combination of regular tours, therefore coach changes may be required. The same people may not be travelling throughout the tour.

–          For operational reasons, order of itinerary and/or excursions is subject to change at any time. Optional excursions not specified in our itinerary will be suggested by the tour leader.

–          A government tourist tax may need to be paid locally upon arrival at your hotels.

–          Venice accommodation is in Mestre on the mainland. A supplement applies for accommodation on Venice island which is to be requested at the time of booking.

–          During peak season, visiting the Blue Grotto in Capri may involve long lines and limited capacity. If access is not possible, or the weather conditions do not allow it, our guides will suggest alternative attractions to ensure a satisfy­ing and memorable tour (e.g., Faraglioni rocks).

–          Please be aware that during the Jubilee Year, certain areas within the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica may be inaccessible due to religious ceremonies. These circumstances are beyond our control. Thank you for your understanding.